German police investigate explosive device on drone at Leipzig airport

German police are investigating an explosive device that was found attached to a drone at Leipzig/Halle airport. The discovery prompted a temporary closure of the airport’s north runway on Wednesday, which lasted about two hours. Meanwhile, the south runway remained closed for scheduled maintenance. Several flights, including a passenger aircraft, were diverted to alternate airports after authorities received reports of a suspicious flying object near the airport just before midnight.

The investigation is being led by prosecutors in Saxony, who focus on politically motivated and extremist crimes. While the police successfully removed the detonator from the drone's explosive device, they have not released additional information about the nature of the device. Authorities have not identified any suspects or assigned responsibility for the incident, leaving many unanswered questions about the motives behind the drone's presence at the airport.

In a related incident, another flying object reportedly collided with a freight aircraft that had to abort its landing due to the runway's closure. The aircraft was diverted to Hannover airport, where officials found minor damage during an inspection. It remains unclear whether this second object is connected to the drone incident, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the situation.

Despite these events, authorities have assured the public that there is no danger to travelers or airport employees. By Wednesday afternoon, flights were operating normally, and the airport had resumed regular activities. The investigation continues as officials work to determine the origins and intentions behind the drone and its attached explosive device.